Shop 4 Classics Old House Blog

Decorative Vent Covers: Shaking off the Cold in Style!

2009-11-19T13:10:00.006-06:00

Kansas City’s weather reminded me that winter is fast approaching. Temperatures dipped into the 30’s and cold rain persisted throughout the weekend. I appreciate the changing seasons in the Midwest and even enjoy the first couple of months of winter. Outrageous heating bills withstanding, I find it incredibly comforting to come out of the cold to a warm home. Hearing the furnace kick-on got me reminiscing of memories of my childhood huddling over a heat register thawing myself after spending hours sledding down what then seemed to be a monstrous hill in our backyard. I recall that old heat register was far from decorative. In fact, the gray steel register looked like it was designed to appear as a piece of the furnace in the basement rather than hardware that would be in plain sight at the front entry of our house.

Amazingly, these same steel heat register are still the standard builders' grade vent covers installed in homes built today. Shop 4 Classics, however, offers a wide range of highly decorative vent covers. These cast iron, brass and bronze vent covers can be used throughout the house or selectively in high visibility locations depending on your budget. Below is an overview of the various types of decorative vent covers available at Shop 4 Classics.

Classic Grills Bronze Vent Covers
Classic Grills manufactures cast bronze air return grills and heat registers in many styles including: Arts & Crafts, Art Deco, Victorian and traditional. Classic Grills also has unique grape vine and tropical bamboo themed vent covers. Most of their bronze grills are offered in light brown, dark brown and antique burnished brown. They also offer grills in white bronze with a satin finish.

Hamilton Sinkler Bronze and Brass Vent Covers
Hamilton Sinkler also offers bronze air return and heat registers. Their bronze grills feature a rich brown patina and are available in a very popular scroll design as well as contemporary styles. Their Strathmore vent covers are constructed of solid brass and are available in polished brass, antique brass, satin nickel and black finishes.

Brass Elegans Brass and Bronze Vent Covers
Brass Elegans’ Victorian and contemporary solid brass air return grills and heat registers are available in a variety of finishes including polished brass, antique brass, pewter and dark bronze. These same vent covers are also available in solid bronze with a dark brown patina finish.

Reggio Register Cast Iron, Aluminum and Brass Vent Covers
With sizes ranging from small toe-kick grills to very large floor grates, Reggio Register’s vent covers are available in probably the widest range of sizes on the market. Although Reggio Register is best known for its popular Victorian style vent cover, they also offer a contemporary grid style vent covers as well as high velocity circular vent covers.

Clawfoot Tub Shower Diverter Fervor

2009-11-16T09:18:00.007-06:00

A diverter is a valve that has a single inlet and two outlets. Rather than open and close like most valves, a diverter valve alters the flow of water from one outlet to the other outlet. In terms of the clawfoot tub faucet, the diverter switches between the tub filler and a shower. The shower may be a stationary overhead showerhead or it may be a handheld shower. A second diverter, known as a handheld shower diverter, can be added to the clawfoot tub shower to provide the option of tub filler, stationary showerhead, and handshower.

One of our most frequently received questions is, "how do I add a shower to my clawfoot tub faucet?" Unfortunately, if the faucet does not have a shower diverter, it will not support a shower. If the faucet does have a shower diverter, the diverter’s likely function is to choose between spout and handheld shower. Sign of the Crab also offers faucets with a shower diverter that can be capped off so the customer can build the shower as their budget permits. However, even these faucets have a shower diverter (third) handle which makes the diverter easy to recognize.

If your faucet has a shower diverter, it will support a shower. If the faucet has a handshower but you want to convert it to a stationary shower, you will need to remove the handshower bracket from the faucet. A shower riser will be attached in its place. As I previously indicated, adding an overhead shower to a clawfoot tub faucet does not necessarily eliminate the option of a handheld shower. You simply need a second diverter. The first diverter switches between the tub filler and the shower. The second handheld shower diverter then switches between the stationary shower and the handheld shower.

Shower diverter and handheld shower diverter connections are not dictated by an industry standard. The presence of a shower diverter valve makes it likely that the clawfoot tub faucet will support a shower but the parts required to complete the conversion will depend on the clawfoot tub faucet. Check with Shop 4 Classics for help identifying the correct parts to complete the conversion from clawfoot tub faucet to clawfoot tub shower.

Add Old World Charm of Belle Foret Faucets and Sinks to Your Kitchen

2009-11-12T10:24:00.004-06:00

Is adding a classic sense of style at a reasonable price a requirement for your kitchen remodel? If so, consider some of the latest products from Belle Foret. Belle Foret faucets and sinks feature Country French inspired panache and are offered at prices where superior style meets the modest budget. Shop 4 Classics now offers Belle Foret’s latest offering of kitchen faucets and sinks.

Belle Foret faucets' timeless appearance captures the charm of old world craftsmanship while their construction includes today’s highest quality materials and component parts. For example, the control of the water flow is done by replaceable, yet durable, cartridges or arrangement of seals that allow water flow when the holes or ports are lined up in the proper configuration.

B elle Foret’s new apron front sinks blend style with the functionality and durability required for today’s working kitchen. They are constructed of Fireclay, which is denser and much heavier than vitreous china. Furthermore, pairing their sinks with your kitchen’s décor and appliances is made easier as most of their fireclay sinks are now offered in bisque as well as standard white.

Toilet Day: The Toilet's Time To Shine

2009-11-09T09:45:00.009-06:00

National Toilet Day takes place on November 10. In honor of this momentous occasion, we at the Shop 4 Classics Old House Blog bring you some toilet fun facts to ponder on your next visit to the restroom.

Other terms for the toilet include commode, water closet, the john, the throne, the can, the loo (British), the latrine (military), the potty (juvenile), and the head (nautical).

Sir John Harrington is credited with inventing the flushing toilet and is the inspiration for the term "the john".

Despite popular belief, Sir Thomas Crapper did not invent the toilet. Furthermore, Sir Thomas Crapper was never knighted and, therefore, is not officially a Sir. While researching this piece, I tried to speak with a Crapper about their undeserved family legacy but could not find one in the local white pages. Perhaps the Crappers prefer to remain unlisted.

A recent survey by the appliance company Amana found that only 7% of consumers say they can not live without a bathroom. The other 93% are severely constipated.

I once gave a padded toilet seat to one of my best friends as a wedding gift. It was a joke inspired by how he spent much of his bachelor party. The padded toilet seat is now a family heirloom that has traveled with the family and, to my knowledge, still serves my friend today--although we do not discuss this frequently.

The average person spends 3 years of their life sitting on the toilet. Makes you wish you had a padded toilet seat.

Toilets in boats were originally placed at the front of the boat; which was called the head. Hence, the source of the term "the head".

One of the most memorable scenes in "Christmas Vacation" involves the toilet in Cousin Eddy's RV. It was...um...full. It happens. It happened on a rented houseboat on a weekend at the Lake of the Ozarks to some friends and me. The incident was blamed on "bad carrots" by literally a boatload of engineers.

National Toilet Day is November 10. World Toilet Day is November 19. Apparently, the toilet is an invention so significant that it deserves two opportunities to celebrate.

While these anecdotes are presented in fun, the flushing toilet is a serious contribution to indoor plumbing. If your toilet isn't looking so sharp, consider replacing it with one of the many two piece toilets offered by Shop 4 Classics. We offer many styles with either round or elongated bowls. For a classic bath, consider a pull chain toilet from Elizabethan Classics or a pillbox toilet from Sunrise Specialty. For more modest changes, treat your toilet to a new toilet tank lever or toilet paper holder from Sign of the Crab.

Have a wonderful National Toilet Day from your friends at Shop 4 Classics!

New York State of Mind

2009-11-05T09:10:00.005-06:00

In honor of the World Series Champion New York Yankees, we feature the Nostalgic Warehouse New York doorplate series in this space today. Much like the New York Yankees, The New York doorplate design is a classic that has been popular for over a century. Befitting of its namesake, the New York doorplate sets are sophisticated, understated, and unpretentious. Okay, so maybe that isn't exactly New York's reputation but the Yankees and the New York doorplate sets do have one more thing in common. They are both winners! And if you are not a New York fan, Shop 4 Classics offers many, many other door hardware options to choose from.

New Vintage Themed Cabinet Hardware from the John Wright Company

2009-11-03T16:27:00.002-06:00

If you are looking for an easy fall fix-up project, consider dressing up your kitchen cabinets with stylish knobs from the John Wright Company. In addition to highly traditional designs, the John Wright Company’s collection of cabinet knobs also includes knobs with ornate designs, eye-catching hexagon shaped knobs, and very rustic odd shaped knobs. All knobs are constructed of solid cast iron and are available in unique finishes like vintage iron, aged copper and oxidized brass. Pair a distinctive John Wright designed knob with any one of their numerous finishes to arrive at a fresh look that compliments your kitchen cabinets and décor.

The Final Lesson in the Fine Art of Bronze Hardware

2009-10-29T20:46:00.007-05:00

Well, class is over and my bronze sculpture is complete. This past Sunday, I sandblasted my sculpture to clean and open the bronze up for the application of our patinas. Patinas are chemicals that react with the surface of bronze by changing its color. This process is similar to what naturally occurs when bronze is exposed to elements over much longer periods of time.

We could choose from black, brown, and green patinas. The patinas were applied in what is referred to as a hot process, which means that the bronze was torch heated before the patinas were brushed on. A cold patina process, patina applied on unheated metal, is typically used on decorative hardware like most of Shop 4 Classics bronze vent covers. I found the hot patina process cumbersome because I had to maneuver a gas fed torch in one hand and a patina brush in the other. After the patina was applied, I scrubbed my character's arms, legs, and head to once again expose the true bronze. Similarly, true bronze hardware has what is called a “living finish” because the color of the bronze changes as it is exposed to the elements. When bronze hardware is rubbed, the patina will wear exposing the typically golden yellow bronze. Patina will rub off of frequently used bronze cabinet knobs and bronze door knobs showing the true color of bronze. For most, this wearing off of the patina is appreciated as it adds character to the knob.

Classic Grills provides a good example of how patinas can be applied to produce different looks to the same product. Classic Grills offers the same bronze vent cover grilles in black and brown patinas. Visit our Finish Tips for more information of hardware finishes.

Today’s Acrylic Clawfoot Tubs Go Toe-to-Toe With Traditional Cast Iron Clawfoot Tubs

2009-10-26T14:21:00.004-05:00

Acrylic clawfoot tubs are offered in all the same styles and finish as their cast iron counterparts. Weight remains the main difference between the two types. I guess you could say that acrylic bathtubs could be considered featherweights compared to the heavyweight cast iron tub. However, today’s durable acrylic tubs are not chumps and can go round for round with their cast iron counterparts.

Round 1: Style
Acrylic tubs are offered in all the popular vintage styles of tubs including slipper, double ended, and pedestal. However, acrylic tubs are typically only offered in sizes five feet longer or greater, whereas, cast iron tubs are offered in smaller sizes. More manufacturers produce cast iron tubs. As a result, there is generally a wider selection of cast iron tubs available. Further, since each manufacturer offers their own style and selection of finishes of tub feet, more feet options are available for cast iron tubs. Finally, some manufacturers provide custom painting options for their cast iron tubs.

Round 2: Plumbing Options
Acrylic clawfoot tubs use the same clawfoot faucets and clawfoot shower sets as similar cast iron tubs. Likewise, tub drains and supply lines will also fit acrylic and cast iron tubs alike. Typically, people want to match the finish of their tub’s plumbing with its feet. Most faucet finishes are very similar between manufacturers. However, oil rubbed bronze and other specialty finishes may vary among manufacturers. Therefore, we recommend pairing the manufacturer’s plumbing with their tubs if you have concerns about matching finishes.

Round 3: Weight
Traditional clawfoot cast iron tubs can weigh over 80 lbs per foot in length and nearly twice as much when filled with water. Therefore, the weight of cast iron tubs may be a concern, especially for second story installations. Acrylic tubs typically weigh a third as much as similarly sized cast iron tubs making them a stylish alternative where tub weight becomes a concern.

Round 4: Bathing Experience
Cast iron tubs are very heavy and therefore provide a reassuring feeling for the bather when entering and exiting. The surface of acrylic tubs warms up quickly to the temperature of the bath’s water. Cast iron, on the other hand, retains the temperature of the room longer than an acrylic tub. Therefore, acrylic tubs maybe preferred in baths that are difficult to keep warm during winter months.

Round 5: Durability
The porcelain interiors of cast iron tubs are abrasion, stain, and wear resistance. The interiors of acrylic tubs are chip resistant but can be scratched and will break down if strong chemical cleaners (especially acetates) are used to clean it. Cast iron tub are capable of being refinished extending their lifespan much further than what should be expected from acrylic tubs.

Round 6: Ease of Installation
Installation of both acrylic and cast iron tubs is similar. However, due to their lighter weight, it is much easier to move an acrylic tub.

Round 7: Price
The price of acrylic tubs is often very comparable to similarly styled and sized cast iron tubs. Since Shop 4 Classics provides free shipping on both types of tubs, the cost of shipping is not relevant when purchasing your tub from Shop 4 Classics.

Since acrylic tubs are offered in all of the same styles and within the same price ranges as cast iron clawfoot tubs, the process of choosing between an acrylic and a cast iron clawfoot tub often ends with a technical decision. Visit Shop 4 Classics Clawfoot Tub Buying Guide for more information on selecting the right tub for your home.

Stair Hardware: Giving Stairs a Lift

2009-10-23T08:56:00.007-05:00

When I was a youth, my childhood friend, Darrel, had an elevator in his home. His home wasn't big or extravagant but Darrel's forward-thinking father installed an elevator in their "modern" two-story home. Some might say that Darrel's father was ahead of his time but I think his father was just plain wrong. Elevators are no more common in homes today than they were in the 70's. On the other hand, the staircase continues to thrive. Stairs are still used to traverse stories in the 21st century.

In some homes, especially Victorian era homes, staircases can be quite grand and are a featured architectural centerpiece. Stair hardware is designed to enhance stairways; both functionally and decoratively. Stair rail brackets with intricate designs and pleasing finishes not only support the stair rail but complement other architectural elements such as door hardware, light fixtures, and vent covers.

Despite improved carpet installation techniques, stair carpet rods that were initially designed to hold stair carpet runners in place still offer purpose today. Besides their decorative contribution to staircases, stair rods conceal carpet tack impressions and creases where the tread and riser meet. Stair rods hide dirt that gathers in the seam and stair rod brackets allow the rods to be removed to periodically clean the seam hidden behind them. Stair rods, stair rod brackets, and stair bracket finials are offered in a variety of elaborate designs and colorful finishes to fit contemporary as well as period homes.

Elevators didn't have the impact on modern homes that Darrel's dad expected. We continue to build multi-story homes with stairs, not elevators. Stair hardware still has purpose. Give your stairs a lift with fanciful stair carpet rods and complementary stair rail brackets from Shop 4 Classics.

Lessons in the Fine Art of Bronze Hardware

2009-10-19T22:40:00.006-05:00

I just completed my third week of a class in casting bronze offered by a local community college. The class provides the basics of the lost wax casting technique, which is commonly used in the creation of bronze sculptures. It is an involved process that consists of first preparing a wax replica of the item that you wish to create in bronze. A ceramic mold is then made of the wax replica. Next, Melted bronze is poured into the ceramic mold. Finally, the ceramic mold is chipped away revealing the bronze casting. This process creates a very detailed three dimensional casting but it is also complicated. And, as a few unfortunate students found out, it is a process that can easily go terribly wrong. I was fortunate to have successfully made it through the entire process without serious problems. The result is my sculpture of an old man waving.

I learned a lot from the class. I also have a better appreciation for why all of the bronze hardware found on our website is created using the much simpler and repeatable sand casting method. The bronze heat registers from Hamilton Sinkler and Classic Grilles are all produced using sand casting. Although not to the degree of lost wax casting, wonderful details can be created using sand casting. Hamilton Sinkler’s lion head door knocker and Victorian knob offer excellent examples of fine details that are achievable through sand casting.

Next week is the final week of the class. We will be finishing off our pieces by sand blasting and applying a patina to them. Look for an update in one of these postings next week.

Toilet Paper Holder Savoir Faire

2009-10-15T10:25:00.005-05:00

Shop 4 Classics is proudly approaching our tenth year of operation. Many things have changed in the past nine years but many have stayed the same. I can recall from the early days, an online directory that proclaimed that Shop 4 Classics offered the largest selection of toilet paper holders on the Internet. Unfortunately, many of the toilet paper holders that we once offered have been discontinued. We are no longer #1 or even #2 in toilet paper holders, however, our current selection of toilet paper holders is not to be poo-pooed. Not to toot our own horn but we're certain you'll find the perfect toilet paper holder for your project at Shop 4 Classics! Potty humor. What would you expect from a nine year old?

The John Wright Company: Home Hardware Generations in the Making

2009-10-15T10:26:00.006-05:00

If the manufacturer is nearly 130 years old, should their products still be called antique reproductions? Founded in 1880 as the Wrightsville Hardware Company, the John Wright Company is America’s oldest continuously operating manufacturer of cast iron products. Interior and exterior cast iron reproduction door and window hardware, cabinet hinges and knobs, shutter hardware, garage door hardware, and a large assortment of specialty items. Many products are cast from their own foundry and then meticulously crafted to meet the high standards that have been established over four generations of this family owned business. Below are a couple of feature products of the John Wright Company.

Today’s mass produced shelf brackets typically feature a plain and highly utilitarian appearance. While this maybe fine if your shelves are to hang in your garage, their appearance makes them a poor design choice for hanging shelves in the living spaces of your home. John Wright’s selection of cast iron shelf brackets offers a decorative and very sturdy alternative.

From its founding through the Victorian era, America embraced the design trends coming out of Europe. From fashionable dress to door hardware, designs during these times were ornate with apparent equal attention to form and function. This balance of form and function can be seen in the decorative garland motif of John Wright’s reproduction European mail slot.

Kickin’ the Tires on Clawfoot Tub Drains

2009-10-10T10:42:00.010-05:00

Purchasing a clawfoot tub drain is an afterthought for many customers. The overlooked clawfoot tub drain takes a backseat to the more glamorous clawfoot bathtub and clawfoot tub faucet. Today, the clawfoot tub drain climbs into the driver’s seat for some well deserved attention.

Plumber’s will often refer to the clawfoot tub drain as a waste and overflow. The waste connects to the drain hole in the low point of the tub so the tub can be emptied. The overflow is drilled through the wall of the tub above the drain hole usually a few inches from the tub rim. The overflow prevents water from spilling over the rim of the tub if it is over filled. Depending on the type of tub, the waste and overflow holes may be at one end of the tub or may be in the middle of the tub. Traditional clawfoot tubs and slipper tubs have waste and overflow holes at the end of the tub while dual bathtubs and double-ended slipper tubs have waste and overflow holes in the middle of the bathtub.

Clawfoot tub drains have extended tubes that your plumber will cut to adjust the drain to fit your tub. The modern standard for tub drain connections is 1 ½”. Most clawfoot tub drains use 1 ½” diameter tubes. Sign of the Crab drains use 1 3/8” diameter tubing, replicating the original size of clawfoot tub drains. A reducing washer is included to connect Sign of the Crab drains to a modern 1 ½” rough-in. With the exception of tower drains, clawfoot tub drains are approximately centered with the tub rim. Unlike drains for built-in tubs, clawfoot tub drains are exposed and, therefore, the waste and overflow tubes are finished to match the faucet.

Despite the common utilitarian purpose of the clawfoot tub drain, manufacturers do offer clawfoot tub drain options. The only difference between the first three drains that I’ll describe is the type of stopper employed by the drain. The last drain is the Cadillac of clawfoot tub drains. To describe something as the Cadillac of options now seems antiquated but yet appropriate in this space. I digress.

The most traditional clawfoot tub drain is also the most popular. It features a rubber stopper at the end of a chain. The chain is anchored to the overflow strainer. Shop 4 Classics even offers replacement overflow strainer plates with an integrated stopper keeper for a clawfoot tub drain with a chain and stopper. The advantage of the chain and stopper is that the stopper can be pulled out of the drain without reaching back into the bathwater. It is also typically the most economical option.

A lift & turn clawfoot tub drain has a stopper that twists up to open the drain or down to seal the drain. The lift & turn drain eliminates the disorderly rubber stopper at the end of a chain.

Toe tap clawfoot tub drains have a stopper that pops up and down with the touch of a toe. Like the lift & turn drain, the toe tap drain eliminates the chain and rubber stopper.

If you’re looking for a drain to make a statement, the tower drain is for you. It is called a tower drain because of the tall overflow tube. At the top of the towering overflow tube is a pull up knob. The knob opens the drain stopper much like a pop-up knob on a widespread lavatory faucet. Tower drains are popular for tubs that are in the center of the room because the drain will be more noticeable. They can also provide stability for bracing a freestanding clawfoot tub faucet. The Sign of the Crab tower drain can be used with antique clawfoot tubs that do not have an overflow hole because the overflow is integrated into the tower.

Perhaps the clawfoot tub drain is an afterthought for many customers because it is usually hidden by the clawfoot tub. Or, perhaps it is ignored because of its utilitarian nature. Today, however, the clawfoot tub drain has its moment in the pole position. Regardless of your clawfoot tub drain choice, you’ll find yourself in the winners circle when you select a clawfoot tub drain from Shop 4 Classics.

New Faucets and Tubs From Cheviot Products

2009-10-07T13:34:00.003-05:00

Shop 4 Classics is excited to introduce the latest lavatory faucets, vintage style tub fillers, and clawfoot tubs from Cheviot Products. For over twenty years, Cheviot has been offering reproduction plumbing that exhibits the highest standard of hand crafted excellence and careful attention to the finest detail. Here is a selection of some of the new Cheviot products that you can find on our website:

Cheviot expands its already extensive collection of cast iron tubs with the addition of the Carlton double ended clawfoot tub. This large soaking tub is offered with or without tub rim faucet holes and custom painting is available. Cheviot’s noted craftsmanship can be clearly seen in the exquisite details found on the tub’s ornate lion paw feet.

Cheviot also now offers a series of thermostatic tub faucets and showers. This new series includes tub rim clawfoot faucets and wall mounted clawfoot tub faucets that included hand held shower attachments. The modern thermostatic water temperature control feature is also incorporated in a new exposed riser pipe shower that is rich in old world character.

In contrast, simplicity and a petite size best describe the new Thames single lever lavatory faucet. This charming little addition is offered in chrome and brushed nickel as well as Cheviot’s unique antique bronze option which is a burgundy-brown finish.

Kramer vs. Low-Flow Showerheads

2009-10-05T10:39:00.004-05:00

This weekend, the cast of Seinfeld reunited for an episode of Curb Your Enthusiasm. I didn’t see the show but news of the reunion brought to mind a favorite Seinfeld episode. In this favorite episode, Jerry’s and Kramer’s apartment building went green. The building’s super replaced the showerheads with modern low-flow shower heads and comedy ensued.

When this episode aired in 1996, water conservation was just beginning to gain momentum. The government had already mandated that new showerhead flow rates could not exceed 2.5 gallons per minute (gpm), tested at 60 pounds per square inch (psi). Older showerheads often provided more than double the new standard. The US government did not require existing showerheads to be replaced but it did require all new showerheads to conform to the new standard.

Initially, the low-flow showerheads shocked many, as it did Jerry and Kramer in the showerhead episode of Seinfeld. Never one to go with the flow (no pun intended), Kramer even went so far as to purchase a non-compliant showerhead on the black market.

Today, most of us are accustomed to the 2.5 gpm flow rate and accept it as normal. Despite the 2.5 gpm showerhead conformity, there are many different types of showerheads available from Shop 4 Classics. You can contribute to the green movement with a 2.5 gpm showerhead and still express your individuality.

So Much Of Architectural Hardware Is Greek To Me

2009-10-01T16:25:00.005-05:00

Most agree that the modern era of architectural hardware design began following World War I with the introduction of what is now referred to as the Art Deco period. Unlike the Art Deco period, which drew inspiration from modern and at times futuristic themes; much of prior architectural themes can be traced back to ancient times. American hardware design of the 1800's and early 1900's reflected styles that were popular in Europe. In turn, much of what was popular in Europe were borrowed themes popular in ancient Greece.

Ribbon & Reed Design
As its name implies, ribbon and reed themed hardware features a design of reeds bound together by ribbons. The design was popular in France in the late 1700's but its origin can be traced to its appearance in the Greek ruins of the great city of Pompeii. The ribbon and reed design can be found on door stops produced by IDH hardware and reproduction door hardware by Brass Accents.

Greek Key Design
The Greek Key design is possibly the most recognizable architectural element borrowed from ancient Greece. Consisting of interlocking waves of right angles, the Greek key motif can be found on everything from the facades of commercial and governmental buildings to home furnishings. The Greek key pattern can be found on stair rod brackets and carpet holders from Brass Elegans.

Egg & Dart Design

The egg and dart pattern consist of series of egg shaped forms with darts, arrows, or similar shapes wedged in between. Variations of this ancient pattern can be found in the design of wood and stone moldings. Reproduction door plate sets from Nostalgic Warehouse and switchplate covers from Brass Elegans also feature the egg and dart pattern.

Fleur De Lis Design
The Fleur De Lis, which translates to “flower of the lily”, has for centuries served as a symbol of the French monarchy. Today the Fleur De Lis remains a common decorative element. The Fleur De Lis symbol can be found on a number of products offered by Shop 4 Classics. The symbol appears within the bowl of a copper sink and on tapestry holders from Brass Elegans. And, if you look real close, you will notice the Fleur De Lis on the backplate of the L' Enfant doorplate set by Brass Accents.

Bridge Faucets: Bridging The Gap

2009-09-25T08:57:00.005-05:00

For those familiar with bridge faucets, their name might seem self explanatory. But for those less acquainted with this pioneering lavatory faucet, a bridge faucet is a faucet that has an elevated bridge connecting the hot handle and cold handle to a single central spout. While the bridge is the inspiration for the name, it is the single spout that initially made the bridge faucet popular.

In the early days of indoor plumbing, lavatory faucets consisted of two separate hot and cold basin taps. You could get hot water or you could get cold water but if you needed warm water, you had to cup your hands between the two taps or fill the sink bowl. The innovative bridge faucet solved the warm water dilemma. The bridge faucet could deliver both hot and cold water to a single spout where it was mixed to provide warm water.

Like basin taps, bridge faucets only require two faucet holes; one for the hot valve and one for the cold valve. Naturally, antique bathroom sinks had just two faucet holes. If the sink had a third hole, it was likely intended for a chain stay. The chain stay would anchor the lavatory drain’s rubber stopper to the sink.

The bridge faucet is also notable for its fixed centers. In simple terms, “centers” measures the distance between the hot handle and the cold handle. Basin taps could be placed at variable centers because there was no link between the taps. However, bridge faucets have a rigid bridge that limits their application to sinks that match the spread between their handles. Bridge faucets typically have 4", 8", or 12" centers.

Mixing faucets evolved from bridge faucets to modern widespread faucets. Like a bridge faucet, widespread faucets have a single spout. Rather than an elevated rigid bridge that limits the application of the faucet, widespread faucets have flexible hoses that join the valves to the spout below the sink’s surface. The flexible hoses provide adjustable centers, although 8” centers are still most common for lavatory sinks. However, the absence of the bridge required a third faucet hole in the sink to accommodate the spout.

Despite the fact that contemporary sinks have three faucet holes and that bridge faucets only occupy two of them, bridge faucets are still popular today. A sink hole cover is used to cover the middle hole in modern sinks. To recreate a period bath, a chain stay and drain with rubber stopper is another option that can be used with a bridge faucet and new sink.

While the bridge may be its most distinguishing feature and the impetus for its name, the bridge faucet did more for indoor plumbing than for which it receives credit. In retrospect, the bridge faucet could just as appropriately be named for bridging the gap between the separate basin taps of the Victorian period to the widespread lavatory faucets of today.

Do These Cabinet Knobs Come With A Complete Kitchen Makeover?

2009-09-22T16:37:00.003-05:00

I recently took my seven year old daughter to the eye doctor where I got the bad news that she needed glasses. She, however, was thrilled and looked at it as an opportunity to make a fashion statement. After picking out a particularly stylish pair of glass, she excitedly asked me if the glasses came with a complete makeover.

Today’s home improvement media seems to favor a similar complete makeover mentality. In spite of the economic downturn, media’s message remains one that all projects must be comprehensive and grand in scale. Television focuses on dramatic transformations of rooms or entire houses where it seems that half of the remodeler’s effort is exerted during the demolition phase. Although great entertainment, I’d say that these shows are probably out of touch with the realities faced by so many. For these individuals, Shop 4 Classics offers a few ideas that will create a new look with out further draining your bank account.

If you are set on creating a new look for an entire room, choose to remodel your half-bathroom. Creating a new look for a half-bathroom does not require considerable investments in a new tub, tile, or tub and shower related plumbing. Stylish sink inserts paired with a new bathroom faucet makes a big difference for these small rooms without spending big bucks. A couple of coordinating bath accessories, such as a soap dish and towel bar, and a fresh coat of paint maybe all that is needed to complete a new look.

Complete kitchen remodels typically run well into the tens-of-thousands of dollars. More economical improvements include simply upgrading the cabinet hardware with new cabinet knobs and drawer pulls. If your budget allows, an investment in a high quality kitchen faucet is often money well spent.

Finally, consider looking for new uses for your existing, yet overlooked, home furnishings. For example, decorative quilts or even rugs can become focal points of large rooms by displaying them on the wall with an elegantly designed tapestry holder.

Door Stop Salute

2009-09-18T08:55:00.008-05:00

A door stop is like a lineman on a football team; it does its job without much fanfare. The lowly door stop toils in obscurity behind the door or may be completely forgotten from remodeling projects--forgotten until a door swings open and punches a hole in a wall or nicks a piece of heirloom furniture. Today, however, the linemen of the hardware world receive some overdue recognition.

The function of a doorstop is to protect walls, furniture, appliances, or other items from being damaged by a door or door knob. Despite its rather simple purpose, there are a surprising number of door stop styles.

One of the most common types of door stops found in homes is the fixed-post baseboard door stop. The fixed-post baseboard door stop is a solid piece with a rubber tip on the end. This door stop mounts on the baseboard or on the door itself. In older homes, the doors are usually solid wood. Often, baseboard doorstops are installed on the wood door in older homes. Newer homes utilize hollow core doors. The baseboard doorstop migrated from the door to the baseboard in new homes with hollow core doors.

A hinge pin door stop installs on a hinge by removing the pin from the center of the hinge, placing the stop on the top of the hinge, and reinserting the pin through the stop and the hinge. The hinge pin door stop has two rubber bumpers; one to protect the door and another to protect the door trim. These door stops work best with lightweight doors.

As its name suggests, floor mounted door stops install on the floor instead of the door or baseboard. They are often used if there is no wall in the door's swing path but a stop is still required to protect items behind the door. Bullet door stops resemble a bumper in a pin ball machine. Rather than a rubber tip, a floor mounted bullet stop has a rubber ring around its perimeter. Cannon door stops have a rubber bumper at the end of an elbow. Dome door stops are a low profile pod-shaped door stop. Dome stops are popular in high traffic areas because they minimize the tripping hazard of a baseboard stop or other floor mounted door stops.

Wall bumpers are door stops that mount on the wall at door knob level. They are usually round with a rubber bumper in the center to cushion the door knob's impact if it hits the wall.

Hook door stops are a hybrid of other door stops. They incorporate a hook on the end of the door stop and include an eyelet that installs on the door. Hook door stops have a dual purpose. They prevent the door from swinging to far open but also can be used to prevent the door from closing. The hook and eyelet anchor the door to the doorstop.

The black sheep of the doorstop family is the kickdown door stop. A kickdown door stop does not prevent the door from opening too far but instead impedes it from closing. It is installed on the opposite side of a door. The kickdown door stop lifts up when not in use and then can be kicked down to prop the door open.

Your application will determine which style of door stop is right for your project but selecting the appropriate color or finish will depend on your decor. Select a door stop that coordinates with your door hardware or other architectural elements such as heat registers.

Door stops are inexpensive and fairly simple to install. Most doorstops simply screw into place. Check the sweep of the door to determine the best location. The rubber bumper should make contact with the door about 1" to 2" from the edges of the door. Drill a pilot hole and screw the doorstop into place. This easy upgrade is an economical way to prevent door knobs from causing expensive repairs to walls, furniture, and other objects.

This weekend, watch the linemen on your favorite football team and appreciate the work they do. After the game, pull yourself out of your recliner and give a little love to the linemen of the architectural hardware world, the modest door stop. If your door stop isn't looking so sharp or is missing completely, visit Shop 4 Classics for a great selection of quality door stops. It’s a virtual cornucopia of door stops!

Antique Reproduction Hardware True To The Past

2009-09-16T11:24:00.006-05:00

This past weekend I visited one of Kansas City’s architectural salvage businesses. Like many, this one was housed in a building that was probably as old if not older than the items that it contained. Reclaimed art and stained glass windows hung from its ceilings. Vintage signage, fireplace mantels, and architectural carvings in wood and stone adorned every wall. Stacks of solid wood doors, both ornate and simple, filled its basement. As interesting as all of this was, I came to checkout the hardware and antique plumbing on display.

Vintage door hardware of all types filled dusty old bins. While browsing through their inventory I found Victorian doorplate sets resembling the Egg and Dart door plate set and Victorian door p late set reproductions manufactured by Nostalgic Warehouse. The variety of antique door knobs was by far the most interesting. I found the many designs fascinating. Many did, however, look familiar as they resembled the reproductions produced by Brass Accents. Lying in the bins were knobs that were likely the inspiration of reproductions knobs found on Brass Accents’ Laurel rose set and Sunburst rose set.

Antique heat registers were another interesting find. Stacks of cast iron heat registers in need of refurbishing were stacked on the floor. A number of the vintage registers resembled the Victorian style grill found on Reggio Registers’ most popular style of vent cover. I also found ornate registers resembling Classic Grills’ Victorian register and even a cast iron version of their Arts & Crafts style bronze grill.

Virtually all the hardware would need refurbishing and considerable refinishing work to return them to their past glorious appearance. Quality reproductions offer an excellent alternative to reclaiming these old pieces.

Repairing Vintage Strom Plumbing Faucets

2009-09-11T14:18:00.011-05:00

Strom Plumbing has been supplying antique reproduction plumbing for over 30 years. The company has been around for so long that some of their reproduction faucets are now themselves considered antiques. No offense to our senior readers but one phenomenon that occurs to old things with moving parts is that they eventually begin to break down. Wear and tear over time creates a natural need for repair parts.

In a faucet, the moving parts are called valves. When the valves break down, they begin to leak and the faucet drips. Like many older faucet manufacturers, Strom Plumbing originally used compression valves in their lavatory faucets, kitchen faucets, and clawfoot tub faucets. When technology introduced the ceramic disk valve, Strom Plumbing converted to the more modern valve. They now offer ceramic disk valves exclusively but for many years Strom Plumbing gave customers the option of either valve type. The compression valve appeased restorers concerned with historical accuracy while the ceramic disk valves pleased renovators looking for the reliability of ceramic disk valves.

Strom Plumbing (also known as Sign of the Crab) versatility did create a problem, however. Repairing a Strom Plumbing faucet became more difficult because the faucet owner now needed to know if their faucet was configured with compression valves or ceramic disk valves. Although the faucets look identical, the internal valves are different and not interchangeable. Therefore, you must determine if the faucet has compression valves or ceramic disk valves in order to repair it with the correct parts.

Strom Plumbing ceramic disk valves only require a quarter turn to fully open or close the valve. This can be a hint that your faucet was likely configured with ceramic disk valves but it is no guarantee. To determine with certainty if the faucet has compression valves or ceramic disk valves, you must inspect the valve. First, turn off the water supply to the faucet. Next, uninstall the handle from the valve stem. Depending on the type of faucet, remove the packing nut or escutcheon. Finally, unscrew the valve from the faucet body and inspect it.

The valve pictured at left is an example of a Strom Plumbing compression valve. Strom Plumbing used several different types of compression valves, depending on the faucet, so your valve may not perfectly match the valve pictured. Strom Plumbing compression valves have a hard rubber washer (usually black) secured to the bottom of the stem assembly by a screw through the center of the washer. Turning the faucet handle rotates a stem at the other end of the valve which causes the rubber washer to press against a seat in the valve body to seal the valve or lifts the washer away from the seat to open it. Eventually the rubber washer wears out. Hard water and over tightening the handles are particularly damaging to the washer. Eventually, the rubber washer will wear out and the faucet will begin to drip. Repair kits that include replacement washers for Strom Plumbing compression valves are available from Shop 4 Classics. If compression valves are not maintained, it may be necessary to replace the complete stem assembly. This is more expensive than replacing the washers but is still more economical than replacing the faucet.

The valve pictured at right is a Strom Plumbing ceramic disk valve. As is the case with compression valves, there are different types of ceramic valves. Therefore, your valve may not exactly match the valve pictured but the photo should help you with identification. Ceramic disk valves rely on two-part revolving ceramic disks in a sealed brass cylinder. Turning the faucet handles rotates the valve stem causing the disk to rotate inside the cylinder. Each disk has a port in it that, when aligned with the other, will allow water to pass through the valve. The white disks are usually visible through holes in the brass cylinder. The ceramic disks have a much longer lifespan than rubber washers and are impervious to contaminants such as sand or sediment. If a ceramic disk valve leaks, it is typically because a disk has cracked. It may be a hairline crack that is undetectable to the naked eye. Unlike the washers in compression valves, you can not replace the disk. If a ceramic disk valve leaks, the entire cartridge must be replaced. Again, replacing a ceramic disk cartridge is more economical than replacing the faucet.

New Strom Plumbing kitchen faucets, lavatory faucets, tub and shower sets, and clawfoot tub faucets feature modern ceramic disk valves. The ceramic disk valves are backed by a five year manufacturer warranty; although they should provide many, many more years of satisfactory use. If repairs are required, you can be assured that Strom Plumbing will continue to support it's faucets as it has for over 30 years.

Fall Fix Up with Decorative Exterior Home Hardware

2009-09-08T07:04:00.010-05:00

Although the leafs have not yet turned countless shades of orange and red, I am finding that the first signs of Fall are all around. The sight of bright yellow school buses running their routes in the morning and the sounds of college football being played on radio mark the beginning of my favorite time of the year. With the temperatures cooling, this time of the year is a great time to tackle some of those outdoor projects that have accumulated over the hot summer. Whenever I face a daunting to do list, I find it helpful to add a few simple and enjoyable tasks that will keep me motivated while not requiring a lot of time and energy. Refreshing the look of your front porch with new hardware is a fun exercise that can make a big difference in your home’s appearance.

Hamilton Sinkler offers decorative exterior hardware in rich dark bronze patina as well as brushed nickel. Popular Hamilton Sinkler items include their Victorian inspired mail slot, six-inch house numbers, and regal lion head door knocker. If time and budget allows, Hamilton also manufactures matching solid bronze entry door hardware to complete the look.

IDH specializes in solid brass hardware offered in a wide variety of finishes including variations chrome, nickel, bronze, and copper. Popular IDH exterior hardware items include their fo ur-inch decorative house numbers, Craftsman mechanical door bell, and their traditionally styled mail slot. If you like to fly your college team’s flag on Saturdays, IDH also offers flag pole holders in medium and large sizes.

The Craftsmen Hardware Company is a specialty manufacturer of hand crafted copper home hardware items in the Arts and Crafts tradition. Popular Craftsmen Hardware items include unique Craftsman house numbers, hammered copper style door bell button, and their Pacific style mail slot. Like Hamilton Sinkler, Craftsmen Hardware also manufactures a collection of similar styled entry Arts and Crafts door hardware sets.

The Great Bathtub Race

2009-09-04T08:50:00.011-05:00

The thrill of victory…and the agony of defeat…the human drama of athletic competition…this is the Great Bathtub Race! That is how Jim McKay probably would have introduced Nome, Alaska’s annual Great Bathtub Race if he were still with us…and had ever heard of the race.

Although it never appeared on Wide World of Sports, the Great Bathtub Race has been a Labor Day tradition in Nome since the 1970’s. Kentucky has its derby. New York City has its marathon. None of these compare to Nome’s Great Bathtub Race.

The race was the brainchild of former mayor Leo Rasmussen who created the event to attract visitors to his town. The idea of the race is simple. Contestants must push or pull bathtubs on wheels from the U.S. Post Office building down Nome’s main street to the finish line in front of City Hall; which also happens to be the old finish line for Alaska’s other famous race, the Iditarod. Unlike the Iditarod, however, the trek is only about 100 yards. To make things more interesting, teams must wear funny hats and suspenders and there must be at least 10 gallons of water left in the bottom of the tub at the finish.

Motorized tubs are prohibited. This eliminates jetted clawfoot tubs from the competition but otherwise there is no restriction on the construction of the bathtub. Built-in cast iron bathtubs are legal as are acrylic leg tubs. Leo Rasmussen prefers to race a cast iron clawfoot tub; although he’s only won the race once in the Great Bathtub Race’s storied history.

The winner of the race is rewarded with a trophy and, of course, the thrill of victory. There are no losers in the Great Bathtub Race but a year of ridicule from the winning team is sure to provide agony in defeat. When the race is concluded, the tubs are exchanged for newer, more efficient models in the Cash for Clunkers program. If your bathtub is a clunker, consider a new clawfoot tub or cast iron built-in tub from Shop 4 Classics. And enjoy your Labor Day!

Selecting a Faucet to Fit That Fancy Sink

2009-09-01T17:22:00.004-05:00

Recently helping a customer with the selection of a bathroom sink faucet brought back memories of my trip to the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show that took place several months ago. One of the most remarkable aspects of this year’s show was the amazing variety of kitchen and bathroom sinks on display. After spending an hour walking through a small section of the hundred’s of vendor exhibits, it dawned on me how far the kitchen sink had evolved from utilitarian fixture that I grew up with. Not to be out done, the lavatory sink is now often a centerpiece of bathroom design. Unfortunately, selecting an appropriate faucet has become more than a matter of selecting the right look. The faucet must accommodate the sink’s design and construction.

The number of faucet holes found in the sink should be your first consideration. Modern sinks commonly have three faucet holes, two for the handles and one for the center spout. However, early sinks only had two faucet holes. Bridge faucets or separate hot and cold basin taps with no mixing valve or center spout are used with these sinks. Single post basin faucets are typically paired with today’s popular vessel sinks.

Distance between the sink’s faucet holes must also be determined. The distance between the center of the outside left and right faucet holes is commonly referred to as the "centers" or "spread". The most common faucet options for sinks with 4" centers are centerset and mini-spread faucets. Generally, sinks with greater than 4" centers require widespread faucets. Widespread faucets typically are adjustable to fit varying centers, however, it is highly recommended to review a faucet's features to confirm that it will fit your sink's configuration before placing your order.

Finally, the sink’s thickness and required spout length needs to be considered. In addition to the number and spacing of faucet holes, the thickness of the sink or counter and the required length of the spout must be considered. Thick sink counter tops may result in troublesome faucet installation. Also, check to ensure that the faucet's spout reaches the sink's bowl.

For more information about selecting a bathroom or kitchen faucet, please see Faucet Tips.

Copper Farmhouse Sink: Now That’s a Classic!

2009-08-28T12:56:00.009-05:00

What would a classic kitchen be without a vintage-style copper farmhouse kitchen sink? The warm earthy tones of copper provide instant charm and its natural antibacterial qualities help keep your kitchen sink clean and sanitary. An apron front sink draws your attention making the copper sink the centerpiece of a classic kitchen.

Of course a kitchen can still be classic without a farmhouse sink. Classic is a matter of opinion and what one might consider to be a classic, another might consider to be a catastrophe. Never was this more obvious to me than this past weekend while I had dinner with my friends and their four sons. In a long series of fits and starts, the youngest boy shared a knock-knock joke that unfortunately finished without a punchline. As he labored to the joke's conclusion, the boy chuckled and said, "that’s classic". I suppose to a 6 year old the joke was a classic and not the catastrophe that I believe I witnessed but really how much can a 6 year old know about classics?

If you would like to avoid any doubt in your classic kitchen remodel, try a copper farmhouse sink from Shop 4 Classics. And you can't go wrong with a complementary oil rubbed bronze kitchen faucet, tumbled bronze pot filler, bronze patina cabinet drawer pulls, or handcrafted copper kitchen cabinet knobs. With Shop 4 Classics' help, your vintage kitchen won't be a joke and, unlike a 6 year old's knock-knock joke, the copper farmhouse sink will pack a punch that says classic.